Residential units coming to Bala Cynwyd on City Ave. development
Federal Realty Investment Trust has gained approval for a second residential component to its renovation of the former Lord & Taylor building in Philadelphia.
Bala Cynwyd on City Avenue, located between Belmont Avenue and Conshohocken State Road, was recently rebranded and updated with an extensive façade and streetscape renovation. The residential development will add 217 residential units above 16,000 square feet of retail space in the former Lord & Taylor space once completed.
Federal Realty’s total investment in the mixed-use center will be nearly $170 million with more than 300 residential units and approximately 190,000 square feet of retail in total.
The residential building, which is planned to be LEED Gold certified, will offer full amenities, significant open space, and ample outdoor seating. Development plans include a rooftop patio with views of the Center City neighborhood, an interior courtyard with grill stations, fireplaces, pergolas, and outdoor pods for dining and lounging. Plans also include an outdoor pool, as well as a path connecting to the retail shops on City Avenue.
“The approval of the second residential phase is a significant step in the ongoing transformation of City Avenue,” said Mark Brennan, VP of regional development at Federal Realty. “The addition of residential units and new retail revitalizes the east end of the shopping center, providing the residents and members of the community with enhanced placemaking and opportunities to shop, dine and gather.”
Bernardon provided architectural services for the project, in partnership with Bohler, who provided civil engineering design and permitting services. Studio39 is the landscape architect and MSA Interiors is leading project interior design. Construction at Bala Cynwyd on City Avenue is expected to begin in spring 2024 and be completed by the summer of 2026.
“City Avenue District has seen a surge in new development including Federal Realty’s investment at Bala Cynwyd on City Avenue,” said Bryan Fenstermaker, president & CEO of City Ave District. “We are excited for the community and residents to enjoy the restaurants and shops in a space that promotes walkability and sustainability.”
Federal Realty's 102 properties cover some 26 million square feet.